Former DUAL North America M&A Chief Joins Dallas-Based Novatae as COO

Veteran executive Kimberly Jenkins has joined Dallas-based Novatae Risk Group as its new chief operating officer, bringing more than 25 years of leadership in client service operations and strategic planning.

In her new role, Jenkins will lead initiatives aimed at improving operational efficiency, enhancing systems, and elevating client service across the organization. She will also serve on the executive leadership teams of both Novatae and World Insurance Associates.

“Taking business strategy and process improvement to the next level is an exciting undertaking,” Jenkins said in a statement, “especially when the focus is to drive employee and client satisfaction.”

Launched in November 2022, Novatae was created to unify multiple acquired firms under one brand identity, aiming to modernize and reenergize the specialty insurance space. The company says its name, derived from the Latin novae terrae, or “new world”, reflects its mission to make insurance more dynamic and client-focused.

Today, Novatae operates as a full-service wholesale brokerage, underwriting manager, and Lloyd’s Coverholder. It serves more than 6,000 clients from 37 offices across the U.S. and the U.K., working with over 500 markets and managing nearly 1 billion annual written premiums, per the company’s website.

“Kimberly possesses a strong passion for helping associates and clients thrive through excellence, innovation, and with a focus on high performance,” Novatae President Nick Greggains said in a statement.

Greggains cited her experience leading strategies that drive engagement, improve efficiency, and deliver better client outcomes. “We are delighted to have her join the team,” he said.

Jenkins most recently served as head of strategic planning at DUAL North America and was previously its chief M&A officer. She has also held operations leadership roles at Willis Towers Watson, Nielsen, and Hewitt Associates.

Andrea Paris, COO of World Insurance Associates, said Jenkins’ deep experience will help build out Novatae’s infrastructure as the company continues to scale.

Quincy Preston contributed to this report.